Showcasing a new sound for Moose after the hazy guitar effects experimentation of their first three EPs, …XYZ focused on the pop whimsy that had only been hinted at previously. Songs like “The Whistling Song” and the leadoff single “Little Bird” are, by and large, acoustic pop songs with effects serving only as texture. It was a formula that worked very well, guided by the steady hand of producer Mitch Easter (R.E.M., Let’s Active). Dolores O’Riordan of the Cranberries makes an appearance singing harmony vocal on “Soon Is Never Soon Enough.” The original compact disc issue includes a bonus live version of “This River Is Nearly Dry,” while a limited vinyl pressing includes an extra 7″ single. – John Bush